PLANNING FOR SMART TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM IN URBAN KENYA A CASE OF ELDORET MUNICIPALITY

Abstract

Transport Systems are essential for the development of economies of nations. Even so, transportation itself, and more so, the use of automobiles has negative environmental externalities that threaten the very existence of humanity such the generation of greenhouse gases. Other negative impacts of transportation include human safety issues through traffic accidents causing injury and even deaths. The main objective of this study was to develop an efficient urban mobility system for Eldoret Municipality. The study was guided by a series of specific objectives which were: to establish the origin and destination patterns of traffic within the Municipality, to establish the modal split, to determine infrastructure capacities for Smart Transport within Eldoret Municipality, to determine the relationship between urban mobility patterns and noise and emission levels in Eldoret Municipality and to determine the socio-economic effects associated with urban mobility systems within the Municipality. The study area covered the entire Eldoret Municipality in Uasin Gishu County with an area of approximately 148 km2. The study adopted mixed methods research as the preferred research design involving the use of both qualitative and quantitative methods for both data collection and data analysis. Systematic random sampling was used to obtain respondents who were found within the identified four Gordon points where specific data was collected. Data from nine (9) modes of transport was also collected. The Data was collected by use of both primary and secondary methods which included the use of questionnaires, key informant interviews, observation, use of global positioning systems (GPS), photography and literature from various sources such as books and journals. Data was subjected to SPSS, Ms excel and Arc GIS 10.5. The data then underwent both qualitative and quantitative analysis where the findings were presented using graphs, charts, tables and statements. Findings illustrates that transportation in Eldoret municipality is unsustainable. There is heavy use of automobiles as compared to greener options such as cycling and walking. The infrastructural carrying capacity is overstretched with high number of automobiles leading to traffic congestion. The study concludes that in order to achieve a smart urban transportation system there is need for an integrated approach in the implementation of transportation policy. Provision of feasible and convenient alternatives to car use, provision of high-quality public transportation systems as well as secure and opportune walking and cycling facilities have been recommended as opportunities for making urban transport green in Eldoret Municipality.